Business Wars Blackberry vs iPhone | A Requiem in Slow Motion | 4
Nov 24, 2021
In January 2011, Research in Motion's co-CEO discovers that BlackBerry's BBM is crucial for Egyptian protestors, highlighting the tech's societal impact amid declining sales. Meanwhile, Apple continues its relentless innovation, introducing a tablet that further erodes BlackBerry's market share. Internal strife leads to the resignation of RIM's co-CEOs, illustrating the company's deepening struggles against a resurgent Apple, emphasizing how critical innovation is in the tech race.
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BBM in Egypt
- In Davos, Jim Balsillie learned of the Egyptian government's threat to BlackBerry due to BBM's use by protesters.
- This led him to consider BBM as key to RIM's survival despite declining sales.
Verizon Switches to iPhone
- Verizon, BlackBerry's long-time partner, announced they would start selling the iPhone 4.
- This was a major blow to RIM, as Verizon shifted to Apple, leaving RIM with only 5% of the market.
PlayBook Marketing Struggle
- RIM's marketing team struggled to create a compelling campaign for the PlayBook tablet.
- The co-CEOs disagreed on the target audience and key features, leading to a confusing message.